‘PEH delay would be like starting over again’
BUILDERS leading the redevelopment of the Princess Elizabeth Hospital have warned that it would be a waste of time and money to kick most of the project into a future States term.
Policy & Resources has recommending delaying phase two at the PEH in favour of building a new post-16 campus at Les Ozouets – a move which the chairman of Rihoy & Son has said would be a missed opportunity for healthcare locally.
‘Everything in phase one has been designed to facilitate a stage into phase two,’ said Gavin Rihoy.
‘The major benefit to the hospital is all about phase two. From a team perspective, it is disappointing to think that it may not proceed straight away.’
There was a topping out ceremony for phase one earlier this week. It should be completed by March for a fixed price of £34m.
Phase two now has an estimated cost of about £120m. Health & Social Care wants to move straight from phase one to phase two without a delay. There will be a States debate on capital priorities in July.
‘There was a learning curve and we’ve undergone it, but we would have to start that curve all over again,’ said Mr Rihoy.
‘To lose momentum and to start again in one or two years would be losing a big advantage.
‘Continuity is the most cost-effective thing to do, and phase one was only ever a stepping stone into phase two. It would be a big opportunity missed.’
Phase one includes improved critical care and surgical recovery units.
‘The storey will contain accommodation for relatives, including their own kitchen, as it can be a stressful environment, and it will also provide a space to meet with doctors,’ said hospital modernisation director Jan Coleman.
It will also feature a post-anaesthesia recovery unit, which is currently based in a corridor.
Mrs Coleman said there was an excellent working relationship between hospital staff and Rihoy & Son.
